I thought I’d share an article on HOW TO WALK AWAY FROM A FIGHT… It’s not an article I’ve written myself and although I don’t agree with every little detail, I feel it’s general message is an important one!

Particularly liked this bit: "Fighting is not a game and should not be used to resolve petty conflicts. Serious legal as well as physical consequences may result. The worst thing that could happen in a fight is that someone may end up dead. There are no rules or referees on the street and the person who ends up dead could be you (even though you may have ‘won the fight!’)."

So, For God’s Sake People… Don’t Try To Be A Hero Out There! You’re no good to anyone dead… or maimed… or in a coma… especially because you tripped and hit your head on the pavement after your friend patted you on the back for ‘teaching that prick a lesson!’ Hopefully, some ‘food for thought’...

HOW TO WALK AWAY FROM A FIGHT

1. Keep your distance from the person that wants to fight you.

2. Talk to the person about why he/she wants to fight you, and acknowledge their freedom to want to fight quickly.

3. Back away from the troublemaker.

4. Try to ignore any negative things he/she might have to say about you or your mother (or, in very extreme cases, your grandmother) as you're walking away.

5. Don't escalate the argument. The important thing is avoiding a fight, not arguing petty points about the disagreement you two have. Don't insult your opponent or become angry with them, but just be calm and try to convince them that a fight is a bad idea. If necessary, acknowledge that they have a valid argument for whatever it is that's instigating the fight, even if you're in the right.

6. Avoid getting into situations that threaten fights. Keep an eye out for danger signs, like high tension, the presence of alcohol, a late night, or somebody who is upset over something else already, and stay away. Attempt to defuse the situation as soon as it arises.

7. When all else fails, remember that there is no shame in running away -- you did your best. After all, the alternative could be much worse: You could die, get crippled, or end up in jail. Remember what's important to you and how a fight could impact your life.

8. When trying to avoid a fight, keep eye contact and also try to keep an eye on the hands. Discuss the problem and apologize for anything you have caused, even if you're right.TipsWhile attempting to defuse the situation, it is important to keep your hands in a defensible yet non-aggressive position. Be ready to block sucker punches to your face/body, but not in a "fighting stance". Use the "prayer position" with both palms pressed together, which looks non-threatening, but keeps your hands up near your face.Use the "stay back" position, hands facing your aggressor palms outward.Use the "I'm thinking" position, with a hand on your chin/head. Remember; try to seem natural while you do this. Keep protected at all times.Some people are scared and don't want to confront their opponent, but you should never assume your opponent won't fight.

Do not take the moral approach in your attempts to defuse the situation. For example, saying something like "I've got better things to do than fight on the streets" or "fighting is so childish" can cause your aggressor to go out of his way to prove you wrong. It's just another way to try to "win" the fight by making yourself seem better; your objective is not to win: it's to not be a part of the fight whatsoever.For people unfamiliar with adrenaline bursts, walking away can be nearly impossible. People who get their adrenaline pumping regularly in a peaceful manner have more control of themselves in a stressful situation. Regardless, try to keep a level and clear head. If you can't get away just tell someone that you want to get away… just don't use many details. When someone threatens to kill you just find the closest responsible adult and tell them.If you are in a car or vehicle, lock the doors and refuse to come out. Drive away if possible.Remember walking away from a fight doesn't determine you're a coward it determines you're mature and thinking responsibly.Be careful when and if you do try to walk away. If the other person is very angry, they may simply attack you from behind. When walking away face the person who is causing your trouble as to prevent them from attacking you from behind while walking away. Also make sure to glance back every now and then to check for potential escape routes. Do not turn you head as you look back.In a truly dangerous situation, the most important thing is to leave your ego aside. Tell him what he wants to hear. He/she wants their ego gratified, and if you can do that without taking a beating so much the better. Think of the people who are important to you, and swallow your pride.

Warnings• In some situations, the person might say something provocative. But again, be the better person and ignore it.• Sometimes the person that wants to fight you is looking for it and will hit you anyway. Your best option is always walking away, but if the person is a threat to you, and backing off isn't an option, you must defend yourself. Usually the first hit can be the strongest and can also catch the person off guard. A follow up can quickly end the fight if it is well timed and delivered.• Of course, if there's authority around you, don't hesitate to alert them.• Fighting is not a game and should not be used to resolve petty conflicts. Serious legal as well as physical consequences may result. The worst thing that could happen in a fight is that someone may end up dead. There are no rules or referees on the street and the person who ends up dead could be you.

• Always keep in mind that there is no shame in turning down a fight. If you are around people, this is no different. People calling you ‘yellow’ should not something to make you have to fight. Remember that it is what you think of yourself when a fight is about to start and when you turn it down that is important. Besides, there is more maturity in turning down a fight, and remember: "War does not make one strong."• When walking away, do not turn your back on the enemy. That makes it too easy to get jumped. Walk away to the side at an angle and keep them in your sight or head towards a crowd. Be mindful of obstacles because if you fall you can get jumped.